What to decide before commissioning the work
Role labels do not describe every service offered by a firm. Ask who prepares layouts, detailed drawings, product selections and site instructions, and who coordinates trades. A proposal should state the deliverables and responsible people rather than relying on the title interior designer or contractor to imply a complete service.
Compare options against the same requirements
Consider how much time you can spend coordinating decisions and checking interfaces between trades. Compare the same scope and deliverables under each arrangement, including changes, site reporting and handover. Price alone cannot show whether the level of design development or coordination is equivalent.
Your planning checklist
Bring a measured floor plan, photographs of the existing condition and a list of items you intend to retain. Use the checks below to make the consultation specific to your home.
- List design deliverables you need before work starts
- Identify who coordinates trades and owner-supplied items
- Ask how drawings and site changes are approved
- Confirm reporting and handover responsibilities
What to ask for in the quotation
Ask for a written, itemised scope. An online guide is not a quotation: product selection, site condition and the measured work determine what can be proposed. Resolve assumptions before approving fabrication or installation.
- Design scope and revision stages
- Project coordination and site supervision deliverables
- Procurement and selection responsibilities
- Trade exclusions and change-management process
Prepare your consultation brief
Select the points you still need to clarify. Nothing is submitted or stored.
Common questions
How should I prepare for a discussion about interior designer vs contractor?
Start with the actual property condition and your required outcome. In particular: list design deliverables you need before work starts; identify who coordinates trades and owner-supplied items; ask how drawings and site changes are approved; confirm reporting and handover responsibilities. Bring photographs and a floor plan so these points can be checked against the space.
Does this guide include a fixed price or approval for my home?
No. Prices require an agreed scope and site information. Where work needs assessment or approval, confirm the requirements with the appropriate authority, managing agent and appointed professional before it starts.
References and further checks
Confirm current requirements for your property. These references do not grant project approvals or certify this company.